Urgent review of biofuel targets needed

12.01.00am BST (GMT +0100) Fri 2nd May 2008

There are growing concerns over the environmental impact of biofuels

Jo Swinson, member of the Environmental Audit Select Committee, has called for an urgent review of Government and EU biofuel targets.

The Environmental Audit Select Committee today publishes the Government's response to its report, Are biofuels sustainable?, and a rejoinder to the response. The initial report was published on 21 January 2008.

Commenting, Jo said:

"While there is likely to be a role for more efficient, sustainable biofuels in future, the current dash for biofuels prompted by these targets is irresponsible and environmentally damaging.

"There is a strong case for suspending policies that promote increased use of biofuels, until robust standards on sustainability and carbon reduction are in place. The Government also needs to show leadership at EU level in the face of pressure for increased biofuels targets."

Related Links:

Environmental Audit Committee

Feb 08: Government announces review of biofuels

Jo Swinson raising biofuels in the House of Commons

Jo Swinson raising biofuels in the House of Commons